Do the CERES Principles restrict managements freedom and flexibility in addressing environmental policy?
CERES does not attempt to impede managerial autonomy in any way. The CERES program is a purely voluntary initiative meant to encourage creativity and independence in seeking appropriate solutions to environmental challenges. In joining the CERES program, companies commit to continual improvement within the framework of the CERES Principles, seeking ways to improve environmental performance while adhering to sound business practice. The premise of CERES is that any truly successful, large-scale response to industrial degradation of the environment must be collaborative rather than coercive. Does CERES act as judge and jury? CERES provides a forum for fair and open consideration of corporate environmental practices. It is expected that the CERES reporting process, by informing both a company and its stakeholders of the company’s progress and challenges, will stimulate positive changes in corporate policy and practice. CERES does not engage in cross-company or cross-industry comparisons,
